Renting vs. owning: How it may affect asthma

Renters are less likely to follow suggestions
to minimize exposure to allergens: Survey

Whether you rent or own your home can make a difference in the way you handle your asthma, a new survey suggests.

The survey of people with allergic asthma showed that homeowners are more likely to make the recommended changes to help minimize exposures to allergens that may affect their breathing.

Common asthma triggers in the home include dust mites, pet dander, pollen and mold.

Experts say that more than half of asthma sufferers in the U.S. have allergic reactions to environmental pollutants.

Making sure that asthma triggers in the home are under control can help manage asthma, but renters are less likely to make the effort than homeowners were, according to the study. While 91% of homeowners took steps to reduce exposures, only 63% of renters did.

Some of the recommendations may be impractical for renters, including the removal of carpeting, but others are easy to follow and can make a big difference, experts say.

Some recommendations to minimize exposures are

• Wash bedding in hot water to reduce dust mites
• Clean visible mold
• Reduce humidity to below 60% to prevent mold growth
• Avoid smoking in the home
• Wear a dust mask when cleaning
• Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter
• Use an air purifier to reduce dust, allergens and other contaminants in the air
• Don’t allow pets in the bedroom

The study appeared in the August issue of Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

Source: WebMD

Air purifiers for asthma and allergy sufferers

Allergens and substances that can trigger asthma are often part of our ambient air, and they can be quickly and efficiently removed by a good air purifier.

Most air purifiers for asthma rely on a HEPA filter to remove up to 99.97% of fine particles down to 0.3 microns, which can cause inflammation in the lung tissue.

AllerAir's AirMedic+ Series
removes particles, chemicals
and other asthmagens.

AllerAir’s air purifiers for asthma and allergies go one step further. While they boast medical-grade HEPA filters with an efficiency rating of 99.97% at 0.3 microns, they also feature a deep-bed activated carbon filter to remove airborne chemicals, gases and odors that are also known to cause or aggravate asthma and allergies.

Optional UV germicidal filtration can help neutralize biological contaminants such as mold, bacteria and viruses.

Leaving an air purifier like the AirMedic+ Exec (which was recently chosen as the top pick for an asthmatic on a TV show on the OWN network – read the press release here) or a 5000 Exec on a low setting in the bedroom can make a huge difference in the air quality and the occupant’s well-being.

Contact AllerAir for more information.

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Studies link lupus to staph bacteria

The staphylcoccus aureus bacteria
may be linked to lupus
Image: FreeDigitalPhotos

Research recently conducted by the Mayo Clinic points to the possibility that the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria (known commonly as staph) may be connected to the development of lupus disease.

In a study using mice, researchers exposed the rodents to low doses of a staph protein over a period of time. The mice developed auto-antibodies and a kidney disease along with lupus-like symptoms, which lead doctors to believe this may also occur with humans.

A little background

Staph bacteria are located all around us. They live on our skin, but are in higher concentrations around moist openings, such as the nose and mouth.  People are only put at risk when there is a break in the skin where the bacteria can get in and cause an infection.

Many of you may have heard of staph infection break-outs in hospitals. Those who are most affected are usually burn victims, people who have a weakened immune system or patients who have undergone surgery. In those serious situations, the bacteria enter the bloodstream resulting in more dangerous infections.

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that is suspected to be genetic in some way, although why people develop lupus is still very unclear. There are a few different forms of the disease, the most dangerous one being systemic lupus erythematosus or SLE. In each of the cases, the body turns on itself by attacking its own tissue and joints. For people with discoid lupus, the skin becomes inflamed, but with SLE, the body can attack the organs.

What the research means

The fact that the mice have reacted to a protein in the staph bacteria may not only help doctors determine what causes lupus, but might also help them keep people from developing the disease. By determining whether or not the disease is caused by prolonged exposure to staph, doctors may help patients avoid flare-ups. In addition, if it is proven that the staph bacteria causes lupus, doctors could keep lupus from developing at all by minimizing exposure to the staph bacteria.

What do you think about this study? Share your thoughts with us!

Source: EurekAlert!

How air purifiers can help

Any of these AllerAir units
(4000, 5000, 6000)
can support a UV filter

Air purifiers can keep the indoor air quality healthy for you and your family.  AllerAir’s units are used for many different purposes, including chemical exposure, odors and particles. But our air purifiers also have a UV germicidal filter option that can help minimize the presence of bacteria and mold in the air. The UV lamp alters the bacteria’s DNA, thereby hindering reproduction.

To learn more about our UV filters or to ask about our different units, contact one of our IAQ experts at 1-888-852-8247 or reach us through our website.

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Health and home may be threatened by mold

Mold exposure can lead to respiratory problems
and other health effects, experts warn.

As extreme weather events become more common, tropical storms, hurricanes and floods can have long-lasting effects on the homes and people in their way.

Tropical storm Irene happened more than 10 months ago, but the flood and subsequent mold problems are still haunting many homeowners.

In the case of one woman in Vermont, a flooded basement led to a toppled oil tank, destroyed books and clothing worth thousands of dollars and caused so much mold that she had to move out of her home and may soon be homeless, as money for emergency housing in a hotel runs out.

Flood insurance only covered structural damage to the stairs and back door, and timing issues and illness have made it next to impossible to get assistance.

The home “turned into my greatest nightmare,” Chandar Hall was quoted in an article in the San Francisco Chronicle.

Mold health effects

Health and state authorities warn about water infiltration and mold growth. It is important to fix water problems promptly, and to dry and/or replace any materials that were affected.

Once mold is growing, it needs to be cleaned up properly. Otherwise, certain kinds of mold (including penicillium mold and aspergillus mold) may affect people’s health and well-being.

Mold has been linked to respiratory problems as well as neurological problems, including headaches, exhaustion, convulsions, lost appetite, kidney pain and more.

Source: San Francisco Chronicle

Air purifiers for mold and better indoor air

Breathing in high concentrations of mold spores can cause or aggravate health problems. Source control (mold remediation), ventilation and air cleaning are the best ways to minimize the effects of mold.

AllerAir’s air purifiers for mold contain a multistage filtration system to tackle mold on various fronts:

• A HEPA filter to trap mold spores as well as other fine particles
• A deep-bed activated carbon filter to remove musky odors and mold mycotoxins
• An optional UV germicidal lamp to neutralize mold spores and other biological contaminants such as bacteria and viruses

Some of AllerAir’s recommended air purifiers for mold include the AirMedic+ series and the 5000 Exec.

For more information, contact AllerAir at 1-888-852-8247.

Have you ever been affected by mold? Tell us how you got rid of the problem.

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Make your home a toxic-free zone

A home's indoor air may be polluted with chemicals,
particles and biological contaminants such as mold.

Our home is a place that should feel safe – not only from outside dangers, but also from less obvious hazards such as harmful indoor air pollutants.

The air in many homes is full of chemicals, gases, particles, dust, carcinogens, allergens, pathogens – the more we learn about the air we breathe, the scarier it gets.

Thankfully, there are many actions homeowners can take to make sure that they live in the least toxic environment possible. Here are a few tips:

No more plastics
Plastic is a very common household substance, but it can be dangerous for our health and the environment. BPA in plastic containers, bottles, shower curtains and other products acts as an endocrine disruptor (affecting the hormone system). Better products to use: Glass containers, stainless steel water bottles, natural fabrics.

Ban the air fresheners and scented candles
Typical brand name air fresheners contain a wide range of toxic chemicals – and they don’t really clean the air, they usually cover up smells. Natural ventilation with the help of open windows, for example, help keep the air fresh. Scented candles are also a big no-no because they can spread toxic fumes. For a pleasant scent, some people boil cinnamon, bake or make their own, non-toxic air fresheners. Natural essential oils can also add some fragrance to the room. Instead of scented candles, use pure beeswax candles.

Better cleaning agents
Too many commercial cleaning products are loaded with harsh chemicals that promise to kill bacteria and germs. These toxins can also be highly irritating to the eyes, respiratory system and skin, and many of the substances have been linked to cancer. Better products include more natural cleaning agents or homemade varieties (for example, vinegar, baking soda and lemon juice).

Other tips for a cleaner and healthier home include using stainless steel and cast iron cookware instead of non-stick ones, disconnecting electronics when they are not in use to reduce electromagnetic radiation, and taking off shoes at the door to prevent outside dirt, pesticides and environmental pollutants from entering the home.

Source: Living Green Magazine

Cleaner indoor air all year round

AllerAir air purifiers contain
carbon, HEPA and UV filters.

Getting rid of common sources of indoor air pollution will go a long way toward a cleaner and healthier home, but during many months of the year, opening windows may not be a good idea due to extreme temperatures, outdoor air pollution or other considerations.

That is why so many homeowners turn to portable air purifiers for some relief.

A room or whole home air purifier from AllerAir can remove the widest range of indoor air contaminants from the home, including airborne chemicals, VOCs, gases, odors, fumes, particles, dust, bacteria, viruses, mold, pollen and more.

The air purifiers feature an efficient activated carbon and HEPA filtration system, plus optional UV germicidal filtration and pre-filters.

For general purpose air cleaning, AllerAir recommends its 5000 Exec air purifier or other units in the 5000 series as well as the AirMedic air purifiers.

For more information, please contact AllerAir.

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Specific bacteria tied to mold, indoor water damage

Mold-infested homes can expose inhabitants to
specific strains of bacteria, researchers found.

Water infiltration in buildings often leads to bacterial contamination, which can cause health problems such as infection, respiratory conditions, aggravated asthma and more.

New research by University of Cincinnati (UC) researchers has identified which specific bacteria are responsible for the health problems, potentially opening the doors for health officials to develop the right tools for treatment.

The UC environmental health research team identified two specific strains of bacteria (Stenotrophomonas and Mycobacterium) in indoor mold from water damage.

Part of the researchers’ mandate is to shed some light on role of indoor bacteria on human health to protect children and other vulnerable groups from the health effects.

It has been very difficult for scientists to determine which types of bacteria are growing in homes, so any advancement will be a step in the right direction.

The researchers analyzed samples from 42 homes from the Cincinnati Childhood Allergy and Air Pollution Study, a National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences-funded project examining the long-term effects of environmental exposures on respiratory health and allergy development in children.

The homes with higher levels of mold also had higher levels of the two strains of bacteria.

Stenotrophomonas is a multidrug-resistant microorganism that poses an inhalation hazard to homeowners and family members.

Source: University of Cincinnati Academic Health Center

Air purifiers for mold and microorganisms

Mold, bacteria, viruses – together with other indoor air pollutants, these microorganisms can have a major impact on people’s health and well-being.

Ultraviolet rays help neutralize
biological contaminants.

While the source of the water infiltration problem needs to be addressed, an air purifier with the right types of air purification systems can help provide cleaner and healthier air in homes and offices.

AllerAir has developed a range of air purifiers for mold as well as air purifiers for allergies and asthma.

For best results, these air purifiers should be equipped with UV germicidal filtration lamps to neutralize mold spores, bacteria and viruses, a medical-grade HEPA filter to remove biological particles as well as other fine particles and a deep-bed activated carbon filter for chemicals, gases and odors as well as mold mycotoxins.

Contact AllerAir for more information and options.

Please note: The information contained herein is not meant to diagnose, mitigate, prevent, treat or cure a disease or condition. It may be necessary to consult a physician.

Moving? Watch out for toxic substances

Moving can be stressful and involve harmful toxins.

Moving can be exciting – but it can also be fraught with potentially hazardous materials.

With all the packing, dumping and sorting comes a new set of challenges:

Particles and dust
Even with the most vigorous cleaning regimen, large dust bunnies and particulate matter will gather underneath large pieces of furniture and in hard-to-reach corners. Disturbing them may send a large amount of fine particles into the air, which can aggravate allergies and asthma or cause respiratory symptoms such as sneezing and nose irritation.

Mystery substances
Unless the new space is brand new, chances are previous owners left some things behind. In the case of unmarked bottles or containers with mystery liquids, new homeowners should be extra vigilant to avoid accidental poisonings or toxic exposures. Bring all such containers to a hazardous household waste dump, if possible.

Cleaning products
Many movers like to scrub away all evidence of previous tenants with harsh chemicals and cleaning products, many of which can be harmful to human health. Make sure the place is well ventilated, and try to use the least toxic products possible.

Decorating / painting
Moving generally also means buying new furniture or household products and painting, as well as doing other types of renovations or maintenance projects. Many of these involve harmful chemicals or volatile organic compounds that can affect people’s health and well-being. Choose the low- or zero-VOC paints when possible and the least toxic products you can find – your indoor air quality will thank you later.

Air purifiers for cleaner air

Airborne chemicals, puzzling odors and irritating particles don’t have to become permanent house guests – remove them with a portable and powerful air purifier with activated carbon + HEPA.

AllerAir’s air purifiers for general purpose air cleaning are equipped with a deep-bed carbon filter for chemicals, gases and odors, a HEPA filter for particles and dust and optional UV lamp for mold, bacteria and viruses.

For special indoor air quality concerns, AllerAir also offers air purifiers for allergy and asthma, air purifiers for tobacco smoke, air purifiers for mold and air purifiers for odor and chemical control.

Contact AllerAir for more information and personalized recommendations, or consult the model sizing and selection guide.

BPA exposure may have social effects: Study

Is BPA to blame for a lack of friends?

Researchers have linked the chemical bisphenol A (BPA) with a host of bad health problems, including reproductive and developmental effects – but it may affect social behavior as well.

In a new study, researchers at the University of Virginia and University of Missouri found that mice exposed to BPA weren’t as social as other mice.

The scientists injected a dose of BPA into maternal mouse plasma and evaluated their offspring’s behavior. The dose reflected the concentrations that can be found in the blood of most Americans.

Starting with the first generation of offspring – and lasting the next four generations of mice – the BPA-exposed mice weren’t interacting as much with their peers, didn’t want to spend as much time with adult males when they were juvenile males.

Since BPA is an endocrine-disrupting chemical, these results are to be expected, according to the researchers. The endocrine system regulates chemicals such as oxytocin, which helps us trust others. If that system is disrupted, social behavior may be affected.

More research is needed to see if human exposure to BPA produces similar outcomes, of course.

Source: Fast Company

Air purifiers to reduce chemical exposures

Our homes and offices can expose us to a wide range of chemicals and VOCs that are emitted by building materials, furnishings, household products and more sources.

An air purifier with many pounds of activated carbon can help reduce exposure to these chemicals, odors and gases.

AllerAir has developed powerful air purifiers for the home and office that feature a deep-bed activated carbon filter, a HEPA filter and optional UV germicidal filtration to remove gaseous pollutants as well as particles, dust, pathogens and more.

Contact AllerAir for more information and options.

Household chemicals: Protect your child with these 5 swaps

Children are more susceptible to chemical
exposure than adults, experts warn.

In the first few years of their lives, children grow like weeds, and their developing systems make them especially vulnerable to environmental pollutants.

Common chemicals and toxins in the home may affect them more because they tend to play closer to the floor, put more things into their mouths and inhale more air than adults in proportion to their body weight.

Parents can limit their children’s exposure to potentially harmful pollutants by making a few changes:

1. Swap “antibacterial” products for soap and water. Antibacterial hand soaps, gels and body washes contain the chemical triclosan, which can interfere with thyroid function and contribute to the resistance to antibiotics. Soap and water are more than enough to get things clean, according to health authorities like the EPA and Health Canada.
     
2. Choose organic cotton over flame-retardant materials. Flame retardant chemicals found in children’s clothing and mattresses have been linked to a wide range of health issues, including delayed brain development, reproductive problems and cancer. Organic cotton clothing is a much better choice and if you can afford it, so is a child’s mattress made from organic cotton or natural latex.  Or, let the mattress off-gas as much as possible and cover it with organic cotton protectors and sheets.
     
3. Use natural products instead of pesticides. Pesticides generally use harsh chemicals to manage household pests, but these can be harmful to children – the EPA says most pesticides can block absorption of nutrients and cause biological changes. Studies have linked pesticide exposure with childhood leukemia and birth defects. Natural products that work against pests such as ants and roaches are vinegar sprayed around doors, windows and countertops, borax and sugar to kill roaches, and diatomaceous earth (careful, some of these natural products can also be hazardous if ingested).
     
4. Ditch the air fresheners for actual clean air. Air freshening products contribute to indoor air pollution with hormone disrupting phthalates and VOCs, including formaldehyde (a known carcinogen). Open windows to increase ventilation and let some fresh air in. Use an air purifier with activated carbon (for chemicals and odors) and HEPA (for particles and dust) and opt for soy-based candles over petroleum-based ones.
      
5. Swap chemical cleaning products with natural alternatives. Most commercially available cleaning products from the store contain harsh chemicals that can cause or aggravate respiratory problems. Natural cleaning agents include vinegar, baking soda and plain old soap and warm water. The vinegar has antibacterial properties and can be used on almost any surface in the home. The smell disappears after a few minutes. And baking soda makes a great natural scrubbing paste.

Source: The Kansas City Star

Cleaner air for a healthier home

AllerAir's air purifiers come in
different sizes and styles.

Sometimes, it’s not so easy to keep indoor air at its cleanest – homeowners may want to keep windows and doors closed to keep cooled or heated air inside and conserve energy. But indoor air pollution can be harmful to children as well as other family members.

AllerAir has developed portable and powerful air purifiers for the home and office that can remove the widest range of indoor air contaminants.

The proven and safe air filtration system includes a deep-bed activated carbon filter for airborne chemicals, gases and odors as well as HEPA for particles and dust and optional UV germicidal filtration for biological contaminants such as bacteria, viruses and mold.

With special units for allergies and asthma, mold, multiple chemical sensitivities, smoke and even volcanic smog, AllerAir’s extensive product line promises the right air purifier for virtually any indoor air concern.

Contact AllerAir for more information or a personalized recommendation.

Dog house dust linked to lower risk of asthma

Homes with dogs may protect children from
developing childhood asthma.

Dogs are often called man’s best friend – but they may also protect children from developing asthma.

Researchers from the University of California, San Francisco, showed that house dust from homes with dogs appears to protect against infection with a common respiratory virus that has been linked to the development of asthma in children.

For the study, the scientists fed mice with house dust from homes with dogs, which made them less vulnerable to the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common childhood airway infectious agent.

They compared this group with mice that were infected with RSV without exposure to the dust and a control group of mice not infected with RSV.

Many children develop mild to severe symptoms from RSV infection, but severe infection in infancy is associated with a higher risk of developing childhood asthma, the researchers say.

Pets in the home beneficial to health

However, exposure to the dog house dust gave the mice a distinct gastrointestinal bacterial composition that appears to protect them from the symptoms associated with RSV infection, including inflammation and mucus production.

The researchers showed in a previous study that house dust in homes with pets such as dogs or cats features different bacterial communities than house dust in homes with no pets.

This research was presented as part of the 2012 General Meeting of the American Society for Microbiology this month.

Source: American Society for Microbiology

Air purifiers for the home and children’s rooms

While inhalation and ingestion of a little bit of house dust is unavoidable, too much house dust may be harmful. Studies show that house dust can contain pollutants such as chemicals and toxins that may be harmful to human health – especially to the developing bodies and immune systems of children.

Regular cleaning, use of non-toxic products and air cleaning can help reduce those risks.

AllerAir has developed portable and powerful air purifiers for the home and office that feature the most complete filtration system with activated carbon, HEPA, pre-filters and optional UV germicidal filtration.

For nurseries and baby’s rooms, the AirTube series provide reliable protection from airborne chemicals, gases, odors, particles, dust and biological contaminants.

For more information, contact AllerAir.

Rainfalls can lead to mold and health problems

Extreme weather events and heavy rains can lead
to mold growth in homes, experts warn.

When heavy rain moves through regions, homeowners need to watch out for water infiltration, which unchecked could lead to mold and health concerns, experts warn.

Allergy and immunology experts say that rainfalls and other extreme weather conditions may turn even small leaks into significant health risks, if mold starts to grow.

Rain can hit clogged gutters, back up under eaves and drip into the home, water can get under crawl spaces or enter a home through tiny leaks that a homeowner may not be aware of or may not have gotten around to fixing.

The water infiltration can lead to structural problems in the home and to mold, which can lead to wheezing and aggravated asthma symptoms as well as nose and throat problems or other allergic-type reactions.

The mold can grow behind walls or in areas that are hidden from view, exposing the home’s residents to spores and mycotoxins.

After heavy rains and other weather events, homeowners should inspect the home and fix any water infiltration problems immediately to prevent mold from growing.

Source: The Augusta Chronicle

Air purifiers for mold can help provide cleaner air

Indoor air quality can be a concern at any time, but once mold becomes an issue, it can quickly turn into a source of irritants and pollutants.

AllerAir has developed air purifiers specifically for mold, which feature

• A deep-bed activated carbon filter for mycotoxins and odors associated with many molds
• A HEPA filter to trap mold spores and particles
• Pre-filters 
• Optional UV germicidal filtration, which neutralizes mold spores and other biological contaminants

The air purifiers remove not only mold spores and toxins, but also airborne chemicals, gases, odors, particles, dust, allergens, bacteria and viruses.

"In the year 2000 I was diagnosed with multiple allergies (including molds), as well being chemically sensitive. As I suspected mold in my basement, my specialist recommended an air purifier from AllerAir. I placed my unit in my basement, and within 24 hours the moldy, musty smell had disappeared! I was so happy with your product, I purchased a second unit for my bedroom! I believe these air purifiers have improved the air quality in my home."
A. Morton, St. Thomas, Ontario
Read more testimonials

Contact AllerAir for more information.

Silent Spring: Landmark book on environmental pollution turns 50

Rachel Carson’s work is widely credited for launching the modern environmental movement

Pesticide spraying could harm more than weeds,
book author warned.

When Silent Spring was published five decades ago, it was met with a public outcry of immense proportions and spawned action on a variety of environmental concerns.

The book forced readers to take a close look at what was being done to animals, human health and the environment.

Carson accused the chemical industry of spreading disinformation, and public officials of accepting industry claims uncritically.

The book exposed the effects of pesticides on the environment and fueled public opposition against those chemicals hazards, eventually leading to a ban on DDT in 1972 in the U.S.

Rachel Carson (1907-1964) was a marine biologist and conservationist, who became interested in the effects of extensive pesticide spraying after a friend described the death of birds around her property because of DDT that was being sprayed to kill mosquitoes.

She was worried also about human exposure, since many chemicals and pesticides can be stored in the body or end up in the food chain.

While there was a lot of support, there were also many critics of the book, who say that some of her conclusions were incorrect or exaggerated.

But studies continue to show the harmful effects of pesticides, including a possible link to the mysterious death of bees.

Source: Haaretz

Reduce chemical exposure – outdoors and in

In the past 50 years, the use of chemicals in household products and materials has gone up, and we are all exposed to a wide range of chemicals and substances in our everyday lives.

Choosing more natural and non-toxic materials when possible, providing adequate ventilation and a serious air filtration system can help reduce chemical exposure indoors (where we spend most of our time).

AllerAir has developed portable and powerful air purifiers for homes and offices that provide a complete air cleaning system with activated carbon (charcoal), HEPA and optional UV germicidal filtration.

With specialized units for chemicals and odors, tobacco smoke, mold, MCS, allergies and asthma as well as many others, AllerAir helps solve indoor air quality problems in North America and beyond.

Contact AllerAir for more information.
 

Relative humidity a main indicator of indoor air quality

High humidity in homes can lead to mold growth,
structural problems and poor indoor air quality.

Homes can make relative humidity problems evident in many different ways: A musty closet and traces of mildew on some clothing, ice formation or humidity on windows during the winter, a damp basement.

In fact, many homes in North America suffer from humidity in basements during the summer months.

The reasons could be as varied as an absorbent soil and moisture migrating through a concrete foundation, condensation on cold concrete floors and walls during humid months, indoor activities such as showering, cooking and drying clothes and water leaks (which should be fixed promptly).

High levels of humidity in a home should be addressed, since they can lead to structural problems, mold growth and poor indoor air quality.

According to experts the relative humidity levels in a home should be between 35-60%. Any higher, and mold will start growing, any lower and home occupants may be uncomfortable due to dry mucous membranes.

Tips to manage indoor humidity levels:

• Use a dehumidifier (in the basement) when needed
• Use spot ventilation in those areas of the home where moisture is created, i.e. a kitchen exhaust fan, a bathroom fan, in the laundry room
• Install drainage inside and out
• Look into airtight vapor barriers to prevent moisture from seeping through the concrete floor
• Fix any water infiltration problems immediately

Please note: Making a home too airtight can lead to poor indoor air quality and related health symptoms. An airtight home may need an updated ventilation system and air cleaning equipment.

Source: The Republican Journal

Air purifiers for homes and offices

Controlled humidity will help prevent mold growth and some indoor air quality concerns – but the indoor air in many homes is still polluted by airborne chemicals, gases, odors, particles, allergens, bacteria and viruses.

Source control, ventilation and air filtration will help provide clean air throughout the entire year.

AllerAir offers serious home and office air purifiers with the most complete and longest-lasting air filters to remove the widest range of contaminants.

The air purifiers feature a deep-bed activated carbon filter for the removal of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), chemicals, odors and fumes, a HEPA filter for particles and dust as well as optional UV germicidal filtration for the neutralization of bacteria, viruses and molds.

Contact AllerAir for more information and see what other customers had to say in our testimonials section.
  

More floods in our future, report says

Climate change may bring more extreme weather and IAQ challenges

Heavy rainfall and floods can lead to mold
and poor indoor air quality in homes.

We may have to become more used to heavy rainfall and storms, according to a report by two environmental groups.

Heavy rains and severe flooding have already doubled in the Midwest in the last half-century and are part of a growing climate trend.

The research shows that during the past 50 years, the amount of precipitation falling during the heaviest rains increased nearly 20 percent. The largest increases were in the Midwest and the Northeast.

There are more frequent extreme storms and the average time between them has become shorter.

More floods and wetter seasons can mean an increase in mold spores and associated health problems.

The groups called on federal authorities to work on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, support energy efficiency upgrades and green infrastructure techniques.

Source: Des Moines Register

Protect indoor air quality during extreme weather episodes

Wet weather may lead to more mold spores in the air, which can cause or aggravate respiratory conditions.

AllerAir has developed portable and powerful air purifiers for mold that can help control spores and other pollutants and provide cleaner, more breathable air.

The AirMedic+ series features the most efficient HEPA filters to trap particles and spores, a deep-bed activated carbon filter to remove odors, chemicals and mold mycotoxins and an optional UV light to neutralize mold spores and other biological contaminants.

The 360-degree air intake on AirMedics makes it such an efficient air purifier, it is also a popular choice for those affected by allergies and asthma.

Contact AllerAir for more information
  

Researchers blame autism rise on industrial chemicals

The rise in autism cases has researchers looking for
possible causes, including environmental pollution.

More and more children are being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, and most school districts nowadays have a team dedicated to autistic students to offer the right care and support.

The condition is hard to ignore: One in 88 children may now be diagnosed with autism by the age of 8, a 77 percent increase since 2002.

The numbers are shocking and have researchers, parents and teachers scratching their heads as to why autism has become such a widespread concern.

Of course, more awareness and better spotting methods could also contribute to the higher numbers, and other factors may be obesity and age of parents, but the scientific community is most divided over the question of genetics vs. environment.

Environmental factors have been disregarded for a long time, but new research from San Antonio and elsewhere are increasingly putting the blame on chemicals in the environment.

Ambient mercury emissions (close to coal burning power plants, for example) as well as poorly regulated common chemicals in households and workplaces have been pointed out specifically, although it is difficult to pinpoint exactly which chemicals may be to blame because of a lack of information.

More research is needed, but the shortlist of possible chemicals to blame includes

• Lead
• Methylmercury
• Organophosphate insecticides
• Polychlorinated biphenyls
• Arsenic
• Manganese
• Ethyl alcohol

Researchers warn that is it likely just the tip of the iceberg, as children can be exposed to 3,000 synthetic chemicals produced in quantities of more than 1 million pounds per year.

Even before children are born, they are exposed to hundreds of chemicals from cosmetics, building materials, polluted air, food and drinking water. Many of these chemicals are neurotoxic to adult brains and they have only come onto the market in the past few decades.

Avoiding chemicals as much as possible, especially during pregnancy and early childhood may be one of the best ways to reduce risks at this point in time, researchers say.

Source: The Current

Air purifiers for chemicals and environmental pollutants

Household products and materials are a major source of exposure to chemicals and other toxins.

Choosing more natural alternatives, providing good ventilation and cleaner air will help reduce the risks at home and at the office.

AllerAir has designed portable and powerful general purpose air purifiers with the most trusted and effective air filters for maximum air cleaning capabilities.

The air purifiers feature a deep-bed activated carbon and HEPA filter system, plus optional UV germicidal filtration to remove airborne chemicals, gases, fumes and odors as well as particles, dust, allergens, mold, bacteria and viruses.

AllerAir offers air purifiers of different sizes, including the AirTube series for nurseries and baby rooms.

Contact AllerAir for more information and personal recommendations.
  

Helping people with asthma

Asthma affects millions of Americans
and many children.

Asthma Awareness Month turns the spotlight on chronic respiratory disease

May is a busy month in terms of awareness campaigns. Not only is May MCS Awareness Month, it also has been dedicated as Asthma Awareness Month.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) wants the public to become more aware of the growing rates of asthma and how it affects families and communities around them.

The chronic respiratory disease affects almost 26 million Americans, 7 million of which are children. The condition is also widespread among low income and minority populations.

Asthma is a concern not only for those who suffer from it, but society in general because of the indirect costs involved for the healthcare system, economy and lifestyle.

In many cases, asthma can be caused or aggravated by indoor and outdoor air pollution and other toxins.

The EPA suggests the following tips to keep asthma under control:

• Know your asthma triggers and avoid them – Triggers may include air pollutants, dust mites, secondhand smoke, cockroaches and mold.
• Create an asthma action plan – Daily asthma management is essential, this includes reducing exposure to triggers
• Get active – Sports and activities contribute to an overall feeling of well-being
• Be ‘air aware’ – Plan your outdoor activities around local air quality conditions to help prevent attacks. For smart phones, a mobile app may be available for updates in the Air Quality Index.

Source: EPA press release

Remove asthma triggers from your indoor air

With North Americans spending so much time indoors, indoor air pollution has become a major concern for those affected by asthma.

AllerAir's AirMedic Series is
great for particles, asthma triggers
and other indoor air concerns.

With source control, good ventilation and air cleaning, anyone can improve their indoor air quality.

The best air purifiers feature safe and proven air filters that can remove a wide range of indoor air contaminants, including dust, particles, mold, bacteria, viruses, chemicals, odors and gases.

All of these pollutants can contribute to the inflammation to airways, so keeping the air as clean and contaminant-free as possible must be a No. 1 priority.

AllerAir has developed high-quality air purifiers for allergy and asthma, which include a medical-grade HEPA filter as well as a deep-bed activated carbon filter and optional UV germicidal filtration to remove the above-mentioned pollutants.

An air purifier in the bedroom can make the difference for effective asthma management. See a recent blog post about a study on the benefits of air purifiers in the bedroom.

Contact AllerAir for more information and options.
  
Related posts:

• Children, asthma and indoor air pollution
• Mold exposure in infancy increases asthma risk
• Ask Us: Air Purifiers for Allergy and Asthma

Apartment dwellers often exposed to smoke, odors from neighbors

Apartment buildings can expose
residents to a wide range of
pollutants and toxins.

We often cover the indoor air quality issues in houses and homes in this blog, but today’s post is dedicated to another kind of home with additional air quality challenges: Apartment buildings.

The nature of an apartment building is that there are many people living in close proximity, including children, seniors and people from a wide range of backgrounds.

These differences in cultures, ages and habits can also contribute to different indoor air quality concerns, including

• Smoke
• Food odors
• Pesticide use
• Fumes and particles from renovation work being done
• And more

 In a recent survey of American apartment dwellers, more than a third of non-smoking residents said they detected secondhand smoke in the building’s public space or within their own apartments.

The survey included 323 nationally representative respondents, who were asked about their building's smoking restrictions; family composition; where they smelled secondhand smoke and how often.

Among those who reported smelling secondhand smoke, 38 percent said it happened weekly and 12 percent said they noticed the smell daily.

The exposure becomes a concern when it can affect children and other vulnerable groups, experts say.

Strong food odors may be another IAQ issue, albeit often a minor irritation as opposed to a health hazard.

A much bigger concern is a person’ use of pesticides in a neighboring apartment, which may enter other apartments through ventilation vents, windows, underneath doors etc.

Source: HealthDay News

Improve indoor air quality in apartments

With source control and portable air purifiers, apartment residents can make a huge difference in the quality of the air they are breathing.

AllerAir’s air purifiers for the home and office offer a multistage filtration system with the most efficient and long-lasting filters that can remove the widest range of indoor air pollutants.

The activated carbon and HEPA filter combination can remove harmful chemicals, gases, fumes, odors, particles, dust and biological particles, and an optional UV lamp can help neutralize contaminants such as viruses, bacteria and molds.

The 5000 Exec and the AirMedic Exec are examples of popular air purifiers for apartments.

Read on to see what others are saying about AllerAir:

“We live in an older apartment building where the activities of our neighbors seep through our walls. One weekend 6 apartments had to evacuate because of toxic fumes from another apartment's renovation. We were able to return to our apartment within a few days because we could detox it quickly using our AllerAir system. Our neighborhood also has a skunk problem, and when the odor starts to get in the house we turn our unit up to turbo setting and it removes the odor very quickly. At other times, we simply leave the unit on low, and the sound is almost unnoticeable. ... We recommend the AllerAir air purifier wholeheartedly.”
Kathleen Jordan

For smoke and secondhand smoke exposure, AllerAir has developed air purifiers for tobacco smoke that feature deep carbon beds, medical-grade HEPA filters and special tar-trapping pre-filters that can handle the sticky substances and toxins inherent in tobacco smoke.

Contact AllerAir for more information and options.

The home checklist for mold

Homeowners should take steps to prevent or remove
mold from their homes to avoid health problems.

Mold spores are a natural part of the environment, but when mold is allowed to grow in the home, the inhalation of high levels of mold spores can lead to respiratory problems and other health effects.

Mold exposure has been linked to aggravated asthma, allergies, respiratory infections, skin rashes and more.
The home itself can also suffer from mold infestations, leading to wood rot and structural damage.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when it comes to mold:

Identify common areas of mold problems in the home.
Since mold needs water or high humidity to grow asses the home and make a list if the most probable areas where mold can be found:

• Crawl spaces
• Basement
• Attic

A musty odor can be a sign for mold growth.

Fix water infiltration problems immediately. 
The window for mold growth is 24-48 hours, so acting quickly, taking care of the problem and drying or replacing all affected materials can prevent a mold infestation in the first place.

Test for mold if needed. 
Mold testing can be very expensive, but if you suspect mold and want to know before you take any action, call a reputable company.

Remove the mold safely and effectively. 
Small patches of mold can be removed by the homeowner (follow established guidelines by health authorities) – larger mold growth areas should be treated by mold remediation professionals.  It’s more important to spend the money on professional cleanup than on testing, experts say.

Prevent mold in the first place
Help prevent mold by ventilating the home properly, monitoring humidity, keeping clutter and storage spaces under control, fixing foundation cracks and small leaks right away and regularly cleaning the HVAC system.

Source: Angie’s List on ABC News

Controlling mold with air purifiers

A high quality air purifier with the right air filters can help with many aspects of mold:

• A HEPA filter can trap mold spores (and other particles)
• A UV lamp can neutralize mold spores
• An activated carbon filter can remove musty odors and mycotoxins associated with some molds

The AirMedic+ Series features
360-degree air intake for
quick and efficient air cleaning.

AllerAir has developed portable and powerful air purifiers for mold that contain these filtration technologies and along with the above-mentioned tips can help provide a cleaner and healthier indoor environment.

AllerAir’s AirMedic+ Exec is one of the most efficient air purifiers when it comes to particles and mold spores, featuring an 18 pound carbon filter (or more), a medical-grade HEPA filter to remove 99.97% of particles at 0.3 microns, other pre-filters and the option of UV germicidal filtration.

For more information, contact AllerAir to speak to an IAQ expert.

Renovating? Use low-VOC paint for better indoor air quality

Low-VOC paint helps reduce indoor
air pollution and chemical concerns.

When it comes to home renovations and updates, we all like to spend as little as possible but still get great results.

And just finding that perfect shade of paint for the room can be exhausting in itself, so it’s no wonder many people don’t spend much time thinking about the kind of paint they will be putting on their walls.

But the fresh paint smell many people simply take for granted can be quite a health hazard, especially for people with asthma and allergies as well as other sensitivities.

The smell comes from high levels of volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, that are emitted from the liquid and drying paint (and even a long time afterwards, though less noticeable).

Thankfully, there is a much bigger selection of low-VOC as well as zero-VOC paints available, which can make a great difference in the air quality of a newly renovated home.

The EPA regulates the amount of VOCs that are allowed in latex paints to 250 grams per liter. Low VOC paints are not regulated but generally carry a rating of 50 grams per liter or less.

Adding color pigment to paints can increase the VOC count since many tints contain the volatile organic compounds.

A growing public awareness about the dangers of airborne chemicals and VOCs and a strong green movement have brought down the cost of low- and zero-VOC paints, while their quality has improved.

Now the healthier paints are just as durable, just as washable and the cost is comparable to traditional paints as well.

Source: Indy Star

Improve indoor air quality all the time with high quality air purifiers

During and after renovations it is especially important to keep indoor air quality in mind, but even in between projects, residents can be exposed to a wide range of indoor air contaminants coming from household products and furnishings, building materials, personal care products and many more items in the home.

AllerAir's room air purifiers can remove VOCs,
odors, allergens, particles, mold and more.

Running an energy-efficient, portable air purifier with the right air filters will help improve indoor air quality and reduce exposure to potentially harmful contaminants.

AllerAir’s air purifiers for the home and office contain deep-bed activated carbon filters for the removal of airborne chemicals, VOCs, gases, odors and fumes, HEPA filters for particles, dust and allergens and optional UV lamps for the neutralization of biological contaminants such as mold, bacteria and viruses.

For more information and options, please contact AllerAir today.
  

Do you live in an allergy-prone city?

Sniffling and sneezing are common spring allergy
health effects affecting millions of Americans.

Airborne irritants are the reason why 40 million Americans suffer from seasonal allergies each year.

This overreaction of the immune system is characterized by health symptoms such as itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, nasal or sinus congestion and sometimes even difficulty breathing.

Where you live may have a direct impact on the severity of your allergies, according to researchers.

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) helps people determine the worst cities for allergies by nation, after researchers examine the 100 largest urban areas in the United States according to three factors: Pollen levels in the city, sales of prescription and over the counter allergy medicines as well as the number of certified allergists and immunologists per patient.

The data was provided by three different sources: Pollen.com, IMS Health and the American Board of Medical Specialties.

According to researchers, some of the worst cities for allergies include:

1. Knoxville, TN
2. McAllen, TX
3. Louisville, KY
4. Jackson, MS
5. Wichita, KS

While many southern cities were named some of the worst spots, a majority of the "allergy capitals" are located in the Eastern United States, including northeast and southeast states.

Typically, spring allergies last from March to May, when trees like oak, mountain cedar, elm and maple begin to pollinate, but this year’s season may last longer since high temperatures made pollen counts spike much earlier.

Experts suggest that those suffering from hay fever get tested, use antihistamines, eye drops and a saline wash for the sinuses, avoid outdoor activities between 10 am and 2 pm when pollen production is highest and take quick showers at night to wash off pollen.

Keeping a home clean and uncluttered also helps reduce the allergen count indoors.

Source: Forbes

Indoor air can make a difference for allergies

Indoor air pollution can aggravate or even cause allergic reactions, so experts suggest keeping a home tidy and clean, vacuuming regularly and using a HEPA air filter to help trap allergens.

However, allergens and particles are not the only irritants that can aggravate people’s symptoms. Airborne chemicals and odors also contribute to the indoor air pollution.

A HEPA filter is an invaluable
tool for people with allergies,
but a complete system requires
additional filters like carbon & UV.

AllerAir has developed portable and highly efficient air purifiers for allergies and asthma that not only feature a medical-grade HEPA filter and a 360-degree air intake for maximum protection from allergens, but also a deep-bed activated carbon filter for the removal of chemicals, odors and gases.

Some of AllerAir’s most popular allergy air purifiers include the AirMedic Exec, the AirMedic+ Exec (with optional UV lamp for the neutralization of mold spores, bacteria and viruses) and the 5000 Exec.

For more information, contact AllerAir to speak to an IAQ expert.